Nigeria Will Never Surrender to Terrorists” — Tinubu Breaks Silence on Insecurity, Hardship Ahead of 2027.

President Bola Tinubu has declared that his administration will never surrender to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping or any form of criminal intimidation, vowing instead to intensify efforts to restore security and ease the growing economic hardship facing millions of Nigerians.

The President’s message was delivered on Sunday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja as part of activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

The solemn but hopeful gathering, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” drew top government officials, religious leaders, lawmakers and dignitaries from across the country. Among those in attendance were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the SGF, Yomi Odunuga, Tinubu described Nigeria’s 27 uninterrupted years of democratic governance since 1999 as a remarkable achievement built on sacrifice, resilience and patriotism.

The President paid glowing tribute to heroes of the June 12 democratic struggle, acknowledging the courage of pro-democracy activists who endured persecution, imprisonment, injuries and even death in the fight to restore civilian rule in Nigeria.

Reflecting on the country’s present challenges, Tinubu admitted that many Nigerians were currently battling severe economic hardship, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement, stressing that the Federal Government fully understands the pains and frustrations of citizens.

“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume said while delivering the President’s address.

According to him, the Tinubu administration remains committed to tackling the nation’s economic and security problems with compassion, responsibility and urgency.

Speaking on the worsening insecurity in parts of the country, the President described recent attacks, killings and abductions as painful reminders that the fight against criminality is far from over. However, he assured Nigerians that the government remains resolute and determined to secure every part of the country.

Tinubu stated that security agencies are continuously being equipped and supported with intelligence, logistics and operational resources needed to combat terrorism, armed banditry and violent crimes threatening national peace and unity.

“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” the President declared firmly.

He further assured families of kidnapped victims that the safe return of citizens held captive by criminal groups remains a major national priority.

As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to intensify, Tinubu also warned politicians and supporters against violence, hate speech and divisive campaigns capable of threatening the nation’s democracy.

He urged Nigerians, especially youths, not to allow themselves to be manipulated by desperate politicians seeking power through violence, misinformation and ethnic or religious division.

“Do not rent out your conscience for money, drugs, political patronage or online applause. Your future is worth more than any politician’s temporary convenience,” he warned.

The President stressed that democracy must not be turned into a battlefield driven by bitterness, thuggery and intolerance, noting that peaceful coexistence and national unity remain critical to Nigeria’s progress.

Tinubu also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, the media and families to continue promoting peace, tolerance and mutual understanding as the nation approaches another election season.

He praised members of the Armed Forces, security agencies and other patriotic Nigerians for their sacrifices in defending the country and sustaining democratic governance despite difficult conditions.

The Democracy Day church service ended with prayers for peace, economic recovery, national unity and divine guidance for Nigeria’s leaders as citizens continue to hope for improved living conditions and a more secure future.